New Zealand newsletter and results

1.       We started off our 14^th season with a high turnout of 55 at New Zealand when neither the cold weather nor the prospect of the Chairman's AGM speech kept the numbers down. Those who took part  were well rewarded as, apart from a 10 minute sleet shower, we kept dry all day under our layers of warm clothing.

2.       The course, as usual with NZ, was in good condition which is not really surprising as there are only 250 members (men and women) and is obviously under used. It remains amazing  that they can keep the annual fees down to £880 though Roy tells me they are big landowners in the area and sell off a few acres to raise money when necessary!

3.       It's always good to report a new arrival in the winners' enclosure and our youngest member and second lowest handicapper Richard Dakin is the man in the frame on this occasion. It's never easy to win off single figures (how on earth would I know?!) but Richard notched an outstanding 38 points to win on countback from Steve Walters. So well done Richard on qualifying for the 2007 Captain's Bowl where you'll be joined by Steve who himself won this year's Competition with a fine 66 from Graham Wright's 67. This is the third time Steve has won this trophy and his pleasure was intensified when news came through over dinner of Arsenal's win in Madrid.

4.       The AGM went well with Alan Bell appointed Captain and Glenn his VC. I'm sure I speak for you all in thanking Jim for his superb year of office. His commitment to BAGS was shown even more than normal when within 18 hours of landing from a 24 hour flight from the real New Zealand, he was leading us out at NZGC and playing as if jet lag was never invented.

5.       At the AGM John warned that as the costs of our Golf Days continue to increase, it will be necessary in 2007 to pass these on to members. He made the point that the fees have (with the exception of one recent year) been held at £60 for many years and that this has often meant BAGS subsidising the cost, New Zealand being the most recent example. It looks likely therefore that £65 will be the new figure. On the plus side we would hope to subsidise in part a members-only major event (like Sunningdale for our 10^th) either at the Berkshire or Walton Heath in March 2008 which is our 15^th anniversary. 

6.       There's been a good entry to the KOs with the Seniors Competition in particular attracting quite a few more entries than previous years. I wonder why! Alan made the draw at NZ and this will be circulated to you all within the next 48 hours.

7.       The Annual Dinner in the end had an attendance of 58 which includes two who are now only social members. This means that only 27 members out of 60 supported the event which by BAGS standards is disappointing.  Those who did attend enjoyed themselves and while there will always be degrees of enjoyment depending on one's view of the food, music and venue, the overall view expressed to me was of a highly successful evening. Let us hope we can get at least one more table together next year.

8.       Alan started off his captaincy with the announcement of a BAGS summer social at his house at lunchtime and through the afternoon of Saturday August 12. This is a very generous gesture by Alan and Lynda which is made even more welcome by the inclusion of an invitation to bring the children (or if you are looking after them that day, the grandchildren). The Bells have a pool which it is hoped will be used by all ages on the day. Alan will circulate the official invitation shortly but please put the date in your diary - it's just before our Worthing day - so we can lay to rest the idea that a summer social has no appeal.

9.       Bookings for our 2006 programme are heavy, no doubt reflecting the quality of courses selected. Visits have already taken place to possible venues for 2007 and once the committee have approved those suggested, a list will be circulated. One definite however is an Irish Tour in September 07 with Cork being the base.

10.    Those playing at East Berkshire later in March will have the opportunity to see Alan's drive in as Captain. We hope there will be a good turnout for this occasion which is timed for 8.30.  

      See you there.

B.A.G.S.   CAPTAINS BOWL 2006 - MEDAL PLAY

 

NEW ZEALAND -   21^ST FEBRUARY 2006

B.A.G.S. STABLEFORD COMPETITION RESULT 18 HOLES

NEW ZEALAND - 21^st FEBRUARY 2006